Radiologic Technologist Job Description
Radiologic Technologist
What are the Job Duties of a Radiologic Technologist?
In a Nutshell:
Radiologic Technologists, also known as Rad Tech's or RT's, assist the Radiologist physician with the process of imaging and diagnosing illness. Radiologic Technologist job descriptions include tasks such as: capturing the image, obtaining the best quality image, and ensuring the patients are comfort and safe. The RT; however, does not do the actual diagnosing as this is the function of the physician or Radiologist M.D. The Rad Tech must be able to effectively explain the procedure to the patient and be sure that they are comfortable and at ease during the procedure; however, it is very important that they do what is necessary to obtain a high quality image that will be sufficient for thorough examination by the physician and allow for correct diagnosis.
Patient Positioning:
Positioning a patient for an exam may sound simple; however, it is commonly known among RT's that patient positioning can be challenging for a number of reasons. The patients may be sick and at different levels of severity of illness. They may have trouble maintaining the position needed to get the best quality image because of their illness or simply because they are elderly or handicapped. Other reasons include patient anxiety or even anger about the possibility that they have an illness. A major part of the radiologic technologist job description is to have strength of character to work through these challenges with the patient in a calm, compassionate, and professional demeanor. After all, it is in the best interest of the patient to get the best quality images taken to aid in their road to recovery. As an RT, you will have a full understanding of the protocols and requirements of positioning depending on what the specific case warrants and what the ordering physician has requested.
Safety Concerns:
To prevent unnecessary exposure to radiation during certain procedures, an RT will use protective devices such as lead shields. The amount of radiation you exposure yourself to is documented and tested on an ongoing basis to ensure that there will be no adverse side effects to you. Patients are of course, also protected from radiation exposure and there are strict protocols for the amount of radiation used depending on the type of procedure being performed. Different organs and tissues within the body have various levels of sensitivity to radiation. Rad Tech's are trained to understand this and to adjust radiation levels and precautionary measures according to radiology-info.org.
What types of Procedures and Modalities Do Rad Tech's Use?
Radiologic Technologists can operate in a wide variety of settings from emergency room and trauma assistance, bedside, or in a standard medical imaging facility. Jobs are available most commonly in hospitals and medical imaging centers, but also in physician offices, veterinary offices, and dental practices. The types of procedures performed are many and the radiologic technologist job description may vary depending upon the size and scope of the facility. Some of the most common include CT (Computed Tomography), MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), and Ultrasound (Diagnostic Medical Sonography). To view a more comprehensive resource on the various modalities and specializations, visit our radiology specializations page.
Radiologic Technologist Job Description Sample
- Patient communication and preparation including removal of garments or jewelry that may interfere with procedure and explaining how the process works.
- Positioning patients properly to obtain x-rays, CT scans, MR scans, or mammograms (see radiology categories below)
- Setting the equipment to obtain the best density, detail, and contrast of the area being imaged.
- Taking preventative steps to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation.
- Applying their knowledge of anatomy and physiology to the process in order to help the physician diagnose problems.
- Must be able to closely follow physician instructions, prepare radiography equipment, position patients, and obtain optimal images for diagnosis.
- Must be able to communicate calmly, compassionately, and professionally with all different types of patients including the elderly, ailing, and handicapped.
Radiology Programs:
Concorde
Campus Locations:
AuroraGet your career started with Concorde Career College. Our training programs are short, affordable, and hands-on. We offer training programs in medical assisting, dental assisting, insurance coding, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, vocational/practical nursing, patient care, and more.
Programs offered:
Sanford-Brown College
Campus Locations:
FentonGet the skills you need in Tech, Business, or Healthcare in as little as 9 months from Sanford-Brown College. Choose from convenient day, evening, and weekend classes. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Keiser University Campus
Campus Locations:
West Palm BeachKeiser University offers accredited degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Healthcare, Technology, Paralegal, Business, Nursing and Legal Studies.
Programs offered:
Kaplan College - KHE
Campus Locations:
VistaDon't wait another day to take the next step forward in your career. Kaplan College can give you the real-world knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.
Programs offered:
Lincoln Technical Institute
Campus Locations:
Saint PetersburgLincoln Technical Institute provides career-focused, hands-on training programs with industry experienced instructors. Get the skills for a rewarding in-demand career.
For more student consumer information, please visit www.lincolnedu.com/lincolnconsumerinfo
Programs offered:
Fortis Institute
Campus Locations:
Windsor MillLooking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.
Programs offered:
St. Joseph's College of Maine
Campus Locations:
StandishMany adult learners are enrolled in courses worldwide and are active in distance learning courses at Saint Joseph's College and are in enrolled in programs such as business, education, health care administration, general studies, nursing, and theology.
Programs offered:
Anthem College
Campus Locations:
AuroraGet the hands-on training you need to enter the exciting health care or criminal justice fields at Anthem College. Learn from our outstanding professional faculty in a hands-on, real-world environment. We offer financial aid for those who qualify, outstanding student services, placement assistance for graduates, and more.
Argosy University
Campus Locations:
Saint PaulAt Argosy University we prepare individuals for careers that make a difference, whether in business, education, or psychology. Learn how you can make a difference in your life, and the lives of others.
Programs offered:
California College San Diego
Campus Locations:
San MarcosCalifornia College San Diego (CCSD) offers degree programs in Medical Specialties, Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Business Management and Accounting, Computer Technology and Networking, Computer Programming, and Computer Science. Online programs are offered by our affiliated college, Stevens-Henager College, Salt Lake City/Murray.
Carrington College
Campus Locations:
PhoenixCarrington College has helped over 45,000 graduates realize their dream of a career in healthcare. Now it's your turn. Choose from eleven conveniently located campuses.
Programs offered:
MedVance Institute
Campus Locations:
Lake WorthAdvance your health care career with MedVance Institute. We offer programs in various areas of the health care field and students can graduate in as little as a year.
"For consumer information: http://www.medvanceedu.info/"
Programs offered:
American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Campus Locations:
West HartfordAdvance your career with American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Our program can be completed in as little as 16 months. We offer program specializations in general or cardiac sonography, both of which include vascular ultrasound training.
Programs offered:
Sanford-Brown Institute
Campus Locations:
PittsburghGet everything you need for the medical career you want. Sanford-Brown Institute's advanced programs allow you to complete your certificate or degree program in as little as 9 months. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Pittsburgh Technical Institute
Campus Locations:
OakdalePittsburgh Technical Institute offers you a career-focused education shaped by industry insiders and employers. Get the skills that can get you the job in 24-month associate programs and 9 to 15 month certificate programs that include business, technology, medical and design degree opportunities.
Programs offered:
